The city of Joy, Kolkata is known for its celebration of culture and history, on Wednesday witnessed the end to its 151 year-year old tram services with a heavy heart and refreshed memories. Kolkata’s trams have always been more than just a mode of transport; they are a living emblem of the city’s essence. For the people of Kolkata, the ding of the tram bell has punctuated their daily lives for generations, serving as both an alarm clock and a memory lane.
The tram journey began in Kolkata on February 24, 1873, when Britishers introduced the horse-drawn carriages making their debut along a short 3.9-kilometer stretch from Sealdah to Armenian Ghat. Though initially it did not receive warm welcome but soon later it become a vital part of the city’s fabric. By 1880, the Calcutta Tramways Company had been formed, and electric trams were introduced in 1902, revolutionizing public transport and establishing Kolkata as a pioneer in tram travel across Asia.
The tram system flourished, weaving the city through iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Dalhousie Square, Maidan, Shovabazar, College Street—gradually becoming synonymous with the city itself. As Kolkata expanded, so did the tram network. The tram services were at its peak in the 1970s with 52 routes across the city. However, as the decades passed, the tram system faced decline, dropping to just three operational routes today.
Despite its deep-rooted history and sustainable transporting medium, the West Bengal government recently announced plans to discontinue tram services entirely, leaving only a small heritage loop for nostalgic riders. This decision has sparked an outcry among activists and tram enthusiasts who argue that dismantling the tram system is a step backward in a world increasingly focused on sustainable transport solutions.
Roberto D’Andrea, a tram advocate who has fostered connections between Kolkata and Melbourne’s tram systems called the decision “a huge backward step” as cities worldwide are ‘decarbonising transport’ because of global warming and climate change.
The decline of Kolkata’s trams stands laughs at the face of irony when you look at the thriving tram systems of other global cities. Unlike Kolkata, which has decided to discontinue its tram services, many cities have modernized their systems to ensure sustainability. Melbourne has upgraded its trams and even introduced solar-powered options while Budapest and Vienna have integrated modern, eco-friendly trams to reduce their carbon footprints.
While Kolkata bids farewell to its iconic trams, cities across the globe continue to embrace and expand their tram networks. Petersburg in Russia has a 246-kilometer of tram network, followed closely by Berlin, Germany, at 193.2 kilometers. Other major cities like Moscow and Milan have similarly extensive systems, with networks covering over 170 kilometers each. Even in the United States, Dallas has a significant tram network spanning nearly 150 kilometers.
Nostalgia fills the air, but many are concerned about the reality of relying on outdated infrastructure as the tram service has not seen any significant modernizations in years. Signs within the trams remain unchanged, reminding passengers to “Beware of pickpockets” and stating, “No change available for 100 rupees or 50.”
Kolkata’s trams are not just a means of transport; they have been a backdrop to countless memories and stories. In a bittersweet farewell, the trams of Kolkata are now relegated to the realm of nostalgia. Although, a small stretch from Maidan to the Esplanade will remain functional for those who seek an occasional ride down memory lane, preserving a piece of the city’s history. The clang of the tram bell will be missing from the chose of this city and will only remain in memories and books.
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